Lexus Malaysia has launched the Lexus NX350h Luxury, a new hybrid variant of the C-segment SUV model, which replaces the previous NX250 Luxury in the lineup. The new model is priced at RM395,888 on-the-road, without insurance. This positions it squarely against the Mercedes-Benz GLC 350e where it is RM3,000 cheaper, but around RM75,000 more expensive than the BMW X3 20 xDrive.
For the additional RM20,000 over the previous Lexus NX250 Luxury, the main upgrade here is the new hybrid powertrain. The system comprises a 2.5-litre inline-four engine and two electric motors, with one on the rear as an e-axle, creating an “e-Four” all-wheel-drive setup.
The total system output is 243 hp and 239 Nm of torque. This represents a significant 39 hp increase over the outgoing NX250 Luxury. Curiously, the new hybrid’s torque figure is a marginal 4 Nm less than the model it replaces. While that small difference is unnoticeable on the road, what drivers will feel is the benefit of the hybrid system’s efficiency, with a claimed fuel consumption of just 5 L/100 km.
Arguably, what is most impressive about the NX350h is how the car showcases Japanese hospitality through its incredible attention to detail. This is best seen in the interior, which is based on Lexus’s “Tazuna” concept—a human-centric design philosophy that focuses on direct and intuitive control.
All the switchgears and controls are laid out within easy reach of the driver, from the large drive mode selector, to the clever capacitive multi-function controls on the steering wheel.
These controls, which can function like a trackpad in addition to being buttons, allow the driver to configure settings with minimal hand and eye movement, with all relevant information presented clearly in the digital instrument cluster and head-up display.
It’s also the small details that define comfort for the passengers. A prime example is the air conditioning system, which features a built-in air purification system—a welcome feature, particularly for those with sensitive noses.
Then, there’s the boot. The Lexus NX350h is equipped with a power-folding mechanism that folds the rear seats at the touch of a button to reveal an expanded 1,411 litres of boot space, up from 520 litres with the rear seats up.
While you have to remove the tonneau cover to utilise most of the expanded space, a task that can be difficult in some cars, it’s an easy, one-handed process in the NX350h. And get this: you can even store the tonneau cover neatly underneath the boot floor, in a dedicated space that still leaves additional room for small items. It’s a thoughtful feature that you won’t find in many other cars.
Lexus Malaysia is inviting the public to experience the new NX350h firsthand during its Nationwide Weekender event, happening September 26–28, 2025, at all Lexus showrooms nationwide. Visitors can test drive the NX350h Luxury and enter the #MyLexusWeekender Contest for a chance to win a two-day, one-night resort stay at The Lisbon Melaka.
GALLERY
